From December 3 to 7, 2024, the 18th International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival "Bir Duino – Kyrgyzstan - 2024" will take place in Bishkek under the slogan: “Youth for Art and Human Rights: Resilience, Dignity, and Safety!”

This year marks the festival’s 18th anniversary, highlighting the significant contribution of the volunteer movement to its development. Yesterday’s volunteers are now educated, active, and dedicated leaders in various fields. We take pride in the continuity of commitment to human rights ideals across generations.

This year’s festival places special emphasis on youth.

The program features documentary films from 15 countries, including Guinea-Bissau, Portugal, Brazil, Estonia, the United Kingdom, Sudan, South Sudan, Morocco, Moldova, Uzbekistan, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, France, Denmark, and Afghanistan. These films explore social inequality, discrimination, and violence, as well as the violation of rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable groups such as women, children, refugees, and persons with disabilities.

The films not only address global issues but also delve into personal stories that make these problems more tangible and relatable.

 In Guinea-Bissau, women are not only fighting against female genital mutilation and patriarchal norms but also opposing forced marriages by embracing agroecology and creating self-sustaining institutions. Their struggle is deeply tied to the legacy of Amílcar Cabral, the leader of the independence movement, who made women's rights a central part of the liberation struggle. These women are reclaiming their power and paving the way for future generations.

 In Afghanistan, animated diaries of two friends illustrate how political regimes can divide lives, forcing one to endure repression at home while the other struggles to survive in a refugee camp.

 Films from Central Asia showcase how palliative care enables terminally ill patients to spend their final days with dignity, while the story of a teenager with autism highlights the power of family and the importance of love. The films also emphasize the role of art in preserving cultural memory, whether through sculptures created in Kyrgyzstan despite repression or paintings inspired by social issues.

 Stories about Sudanese youth living on the streets of Morocco highlight the consequences of war and violence, underlining the fragility of human life. On the other side of the world, the fight to establish a memorial for victims of slavery on Saint Helena Island becomes a symbol of remembrance and overcoming colonial legacies.

 Environmental issues also take center stage: a flood in Kazakhstan symbolizes the destructive power of nature and the urgent need to rethink our relationship with the environment. Meanwhile, isolation in a Himalayan village during the pandemic reveals the depth of human connections that arise in the most unexpected circumstances.

Each film sheds light on global challenges through local perspectives, telling stories of the fight for equality, freedom, and human dignity. These films remind us that behind every statistic lies a real story, and within every challenge lies an opportunity for change and inspiration. The festival offers young people opportunities to learn how to address contemporary challenges, promote human rights, and build inclusive societies.

During this challenging time for democracy, the festival focuses on strategic initiatives:

The “Helsinki +50” initiative, under Finland’s leadership in 2025, emphasizes the need to revitalize the values of the Helsinki Accords, foster dialogue, and strengthen the role of parliaments, civil society, and youth in advancing the agenda of peace, human rights, and development. The Declaration on Human Rights Defenders +25, calling for enhanced safety, freedom of expression, and association rights for human rights defenders, as well as strengthened international cooperation.

Empowering youth as advocates and leaders in human rights, a vital step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering inclusivity, reducing inequalities, and building a just future.

In addition to film screenings, thematic events will address issues such as enhancing the participation of women and youth in decision-making, labor rights protection, amplifying regional voices, and advancing human rights through art.

Opening Ceremony: December 3, 2024, at the Novotel Hotel (16 Manas Ave., 2nd floor, Bishkek).

Film Screenings: AUCA Makerspace (7/6 Aaly Tokombaev St., Bishkek).

Admission is free.

For questions, please contact us at: +996 (551) 089-099, +996 (772) 163-229 birduino.festival@gmail.com

WE INVITE ALL FRIENDS AND PARTNERS OF THE FESTIVAL TO JOIN US!